The Cabardes AOC is in the Languedoc, just north of Carcassonne and west of Minervois. The AOC demands a mixture of Rhone and Bordeaux grapes - the only allowance for that in all of France. Interestingly, the AOC stipulates that the grapes grown must be a 50% split between the two regions, yet the wine can be a blend of the maker's choice. Although the Romans planted vines as early as 40 BC, the appellation is one of the newest in France with wines being certified since February of 1999.
This Cabardes is a blend of six grapes (syrah, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, grenache, cabernet franc + malbec or cot) that are vinified separately in a combination of steel vats, oak foudres, and a little new barrique. This the area where winemakers from around the world have gone to find affordable, old vine plots. Currently, there are less than 30 estates making Cabardes, and there are less than 1,000 hectares under production.
Stop by the shop today or tonight to check it out!
Sacha Lichine Cabardes $11 a bottle
